JOHN TERRY was yesterday forced to back down after a very public show of support for his Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard.

Blues manager Rafa Benitez said he was surprised by captain Terry’s comments that he was devastated at Lampard’s impending exit. Terry took down the message from his Instagram account, in which he also urged the club to retire Lampard’s jersey once the midfielder leaves Stamford Bridge.

With no sign of Chelsea offering Lampard a new deal this has clearly upset his skipper. Terry posted a picture on photo-sharing service Instagram of he and Lampard holding the FA Cup, with the comment: “Devastated is an understatement. We should retire the number 8 shirt in honour of Lamps. #theheartbeat #hero #legend #goalmachine #friend #keep the blue flag flying high #cfc #chelsea.”

Devastated is an understatement. We should retire the number 8 shirt in honour of Lamps.

John Terry

The posting was later replaced, with a comment explaining Terry had been reacting to quotes attributed to Lampard’s agent, Steve Kutner, who reportedly said the midfielder would definitely leave the club this summer.

Benitez said: “I was surprised when they told me but that’s it. It was the agent with things he says he didn’t say, so it was quite difficult to follow.”

Demba Ba has completed his move from Newcastle and can play today. He said: “This club is at another level, it isn’t West Ham or Newcastle. They are both big clubs with a strong history, but Chelsea is Chelsea and you cannot compare. It will be easier with world-class players around.”